"As a result of the publication … issues arose with the shareholders of Independent Star Limited," the Irish Daily Star wrote in a statement obtained by the BBC. "Having considered those issues in tandem with Mr O'Kane, it is Mr O'Kane's decision to resign as editor of the Irish Daily Star."

After the publication of the photographs in September, St. James Palace expressed outrage.

"There can be no motivation for this action other than greed," a palace spokesperson said.

Northern and Shell, the owners of the Irish Daily Star, immediately said at the time that they disagreed with the tabloid's decision to publish the photographs of the Duchess of Cambridge and "very much regret the distress it has caused."